What are RBC-transfusion-dependence and -independence?

Leuk Res. 2011 Jan;35(1):8-11. doi: 10.1016/j.leukres.2010.07.015. Epub 2010 Aug 7.

Abstract

The term RBC-transfusion-dependence is widely-used by hematologists to describe a condition of severe anemia typically arising when erythropoiesis is reduced such that a person continuously requires ≥1 RBC-transfusions over a specified interval. Defining a person as RBC-transfusion-dependent has important implications in diverse hematological disorders especially because it strongly-correlated with decreased survival. Conversely, becoming RBC-transfusion-independent or receiving fewer RBC-transfusions over a specified interval is defined as improvement or response in many disease- and/or therapy-setting. Whether this correlates with improved survival is controversial. We used a structured expert-panel consensus panel process to define RBC-transfusion-dependence and -independence or improvement. We suggest these definitions may prove useful to persons studying or treating these diseases.

Publication types

  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Delphi Technique
  • Erythrocyte Transfusion*
  • Humans